An international driving license (or to be technically accurate, an international driver’s permit) is necessary for you to be able to drive a vehicle in another country.
The international driver’s permit will allow you to drive in one of 150 countries it is accepted.
This permit is valid for a year.
How to Get an International Driver’s Permit
Step 1
You will need a valid U.S. driver’s license and a couple of passport sized photos. Make sure the license is valid at least for the length of the vacation. The one year validity of the international driver’s permit rests on this fact. If your US driver’s license ends sooner, the driver’s permit will expire at the same time.
Step 2
Get yourself photographed and sign both photos at the back.
Step 3
Apply for the international driver’s permit at the American Automobile Touring Alliance or the American Automobile Association. These are the only agencies authorized by the US State Department to issue international driver’s permits. Go to the website and fill out the application form.
Step 4
After submitting the application, get in touch with the agency. Inquire about the fees and where their nearest branch.
Step 5
If you prefer to apply by snail mail, send a photocopy of your driver’s license (front and back). Mail it to: AAA/IDP, 1000 AAA Dr. Heathrow, FL, 32746, Attn: Mailstop #28.
Step 6
If you are applying for an international driving license in person, it is best to call the agency first. Ask what documents and papers you need to bring.
Warnings
The international driver’s permit is valid only for the vehicle you are driving in the US. You cannot get an international driver’s permit without a valid US driver’s license, so beware of scammers.
A site that claims to offer a license even if you don’t have a state driver’s license is a scammer. These scammers will also claim their license will help you avoid getting traffic tickets. This is not true; ignore those claims.
Remember this fact: you cannot get an international driver’s permit without a legitimate driver’s license. Availing of these illegal services is a criminal act and could land you in jail.
If you have been scammed or experiencing other problems, contact the Better Business Bureau, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the local Attorney General in your area.
If you are going to live in the country you are visiting, you will need to follow the rules there for getting a valid driver’s license. This will vary per country, so read the regulations.
Tips
Learn about the road rules in the country you are visiting. Getting a license is just the start. You need to be aware of the traffic rules, speed limits, etc. Get to know the vehicle too (if it is a right hand drive, left hand drive etc).
Getting an international driving license will help you travel in other countries more easily. As long as you follow the correct procedures and stay away from scammers, obtaining this license should be easy and straightforward.
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